Position Summary

This is a unique dual-role opportunity for an experienced and passionate wine professional who thrives both in the cellar and the vineyard. The Assistant Winemaker & Viticulturist will support the production team in crafting exceptional wines while overseeing viticulture practices across estate and grower vineyards. This role requires strong collaboration, communication, and leadership skills, with a focus on wine quality and long-term vineyard health.

Winemaking Responsibilities
•  Collaborate with the Winemaker and Cellar Leads to manage daily cellar operations and maintain production timelines.
•  Create and provide direction and clarity on work orders; assist in task execution as needed.
•  Monitor wine development year-round and communicate insights or concerns to the team.
•  Lead and evaluate winemaking trials in coordination with the Winemaker.
•  Ensure compliance with winery safety and quality protocols.
•  Work with Winery Operations Coordinator to maintain winery certifications (LIVE, OSHA, ODA, etc.).
•  Coordinate harvest logistics, including labor, pre-harvest prep, intern hiring and supervision.
•  Help create operational timelines and support alignment with sales release schedules.
•  Track production budgets in collaboration with the Winemaker and CFO.

Viticulture Responsibilities
•  Serve as the primary contact for all viticulture-related activities across Ponzi’s owned, leased, and contracted vineyard sites.
•  Manage annual vineyard planning including pruning, sprays, amendments, and harvest readiness.
•  Supervise third-party vineyard management companies to ensure adherence to Ponzi’s farming standards and quality targets.
•  Conduct field scouting, monitor vine health, and collect seasonal data to guide decision-making.
•  Manage grape supply planning and sales: vineyard contracts, crop estimates, sampling, harvest coordination, fruit sales, and fruit quality oversight.
•  Partner with the Winemaker on picking decisions and post-harvest analysis.
•  Maintain vineyard data in Innovint and help achieve/maintain certifications (LIVE, Organic).
•  Participate in vineyard development planning and attend industry events and seminars on behalf of Ponzi.

General & Administrative
•  Foster a positive, collaborative, and respectful culture within the winery and vineyard teams.
•  Support team events, tastings, and education efforts when needed.
•  Contribute to continuous improvement in facility organization, cleanliness, and systems.

Qualifications
•  5-7+ years of hands-on experience in winemaking and vineyard operations.
•  Strong understanding of vineyard management and wine production processes.
•  Excellent communication and organizational skills.
•  Comfortable leading by example in both vineyard and cellar environments.
•  Proficiency with vineyard management software (e.g., Innovint) is a plus.
•  Must be able to work flexible hours during harvest and other peak periods.
•  Passion for sustainability, wine quality, and Oregon viticulture.